Chargers to place S James on injured reserve

The Los Angeles Chargers will place safety Derwin James on injured reserve ahead of Week 1, the team announced in a press release on Thursday.

James underwent surgery on Thursday to address a stress fracture of the fifth metatarsal in his foot, multiple outlets reported. The surgery was performed by Dr. Robert Anderson in Green Bay, Wis.

The NFL Network reported that James was expected to be sidelined approximately three months, putting his potential return sometime in November.

A player placed on injured reserve after the cutdown to 53-man rosters but prior to the season cannot be activated until after Week 8. The team is able to designate up to two players to return to the active roster after an eight-week absence.

James recorded 105 total tackles, 3.5 sacks and three interceptions last season after being selected with the 17th overall pick of the 2018 NFL Draft.

The 23-year-old James earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors and was the first rookie in franchise history to eclipse 100 tackles.

James excelled in his final season at Florida State in 2017, collecting 84 tackles (5.5 for loss), two interceptions (one returned for a touchdown) and 11 pass breakups.